HMS Furious was laid down as a battlecruiser but was completed as Britain's first designated Aircraft Carrier. Originally built with only a forward flight deck, Sopwith Pups were taken on board for flying trials. While take off was a relatively easy operation landing was an entirely different matter as the aircraft had to manoeuvre around the superstructure. After two successful landings were made by Squadron Commander Dunning, the third attempt ended in disaster and Dunning was drowned. As a result Furious was returned to the dockyard for a second, aft flight deck to be installed. The painting shows Furious as built with one of her pilots in Sopwith Pup N6454 contemplating the problem.

MEDIUM: Acrylic on canvas boardSIZE: 510x410mm (20.00x16.00ins)​GICLEE PRINTS are available in various sizes.​ Enquire​